South Africa top WTC rankings after series win over Australia

South Africa's series win over Australia has placed them at the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, improving their chances of reaching the final.

The top two teams in the WTC points table for the 2025-27 cycle will advance to the final in London in June. South Africa currently have a points percentage of 71.43, slightly behind New Zealand at 72.22.

The team overtook Australia, whose points percentage dropped to 69.23 after their 176-run loss at Newlands. South Africa must now win five of their remaining seven tests to qualify for the final.

The next challenge for South Africa is a home series against England, which begins in December. England, under new coach Stephen Fleming and captain Joe Root, have won three of their last four series in South Africa.

Officials noted that even if South Africa lose some points, their closest rivals will face each other in upcoming fixtures, which could balance the competition. The final ranking is based on the percentage of total points won out of total points contested.

South Africa's previous appearance in the WTC final was controversial due to the number of tests they played compared to other teams. This cycle, they will again play fewer tests than Australia, England, and India, but their credentials have been strengthened by beating India 2-0 away late last year.